Part 2: Pilates is NOT Just for Women - Men Love It Too!

We continue our segment about Men and Pilates with an interview with our instructor Neill Shelton.

Neill is a professional pairs figure skater who not only tours with companies performing in ice shows, but he (and his sister) is also in the Radio City Music Hall Rockette's Christmas Spectacular! If you go this year, make sure to check in with us for which shows he will be in! Thank you Neill for sharing your love of Pilates with us!

Q: What brought you to Pilates?

I first started doing Pilates when I was a teenager. My Mom hired a classically trained (PowerPilates!) teacher for her ballet studio, and purchased a Cadillac/Reformer combo unit. My sister and I trained as competitive pair figure skaters, and Pilates became an integral part of our cross training. After retiring from competition we spent 14+ years skating professionally in companies with shows all over the world, most recently in the Radio City Rockette's Christmas show in NYC. We both got our comprehensive teacher certifications at Providence Pilates a couple of years ago, and we both credit our Pilates practice as one of the major reasons we are still able to do what we do, at the level that we do. 

Q: What benefits have you seen with Pilates?

In addition to the benefits that I feel in my own body from my Pilates practice, becoming a teacher has opened my eyes to the real magic of the method. Classical Pilates can truly benefit any body, of any age, fitness level, or experience. The order and the system helps anyone to move through their life with greater ease, confidence, and less pain. 

Q: How do you use Pilates in your daily life?

Pilates effects everything in my daily life! When I am teaching Pilates or figure skating lessons I am very physical with my body, and even more so when I am doing a show. Pilates helps keep everything running strongly, smoothly, and injury free. I use it when I am taking the dog for a walk, riding my bike, or even driving in my car being more mindful of my posture. It's the best!

Interested in trying something new? Our Cumberland location is rolling out a new class format:

Pilates Circuit Class!!

When: Saturdays 10:30am

What: This class will be taught by 3 instructors and can have a maximum of 12 students. There will be 3 groups of 4 students and class will be 20 minutes on Reformer, 20 minutes on Tower, and 20 minutes Chair/ Barrels. 3 Segments and 3 different teachers in the same hour!

Cost: Class will be the same price as our Reformer classes/packages for Reformer group can apply.

Class starts June 8th!!! Register now online!

Call Edwarda at 401-595-8462 or email if you need assistance!